DOJ Charges Tren de Aragua Gang Leader with Terrorism

The Department of Justice has, for the first time, charged Jose Enrique Martinez Flores, an alleged high-ranking member of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang, with terrorism-related offenses as part of a broader Trump administration crackdown on the group. Flores, described as part of the gang's inner leadership circle in Bogotá, Colombia, was arrested by Colombian authorities after a U.S. provisional arrest warrant and faces charges of providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization and international drug distribution. The case follows the Trump administration's designation of Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization and the invocation of the Alien Enemies Act to target its members. Officials say the prosecution marks a significant shift in the Justice Department's approach, treating the gang as a highly structured terrorist organization rather than a conventional street gang. If convicted, Flores faces up to life in prison and a $10 million fine. He remains in Colombian custody pending extradition and further legal proceedings.